Dave’s Hot Chicken, the late-night pop-up turned culinary sensation, has announced its imminent arrival in the UK and Ireland. The brand, known for its spicy chicken offerings, has signed an agreement with the Azzurri Group to open 60 locations. The first of these is expected to launch in London by the first quarter of 2025.
The Azzurri Group, one of the UK’s foremost hospitality investment platforms, operates prominent national Italian brands such as Zizzi and ASK Italian. Additionally, Azzurri manages Coco di Mama, the quick-service Italian chain, and Boojum, a renowned Irish fast-casual Mexican restaurant brand. Employing nearly 6,000 people, Azzurri serves over 15 million meals annually across its more than 230 restaurants and stores.
“When we first tried Dave’s Hot Chicken we were blown away as it makes some of the most craveable and delicious food we’ve ever had,” said Steve Holmes, CEO of Azzurri Group. “We’re excited to bring this incredible brand to the UK and to be their partner in this ambitious roll-out.”
Dave’s Hot Chicken has quickly become one of the fastest-growing restaurant brands in US history. It boasts a significant social media presence, with 2.4 million TikTok followers and 1.2 million Instagram followers, supported by market-leading Google customer reviews. The brand’s core customer base comprises Gen Z and Millennial males, drawn to its menu of jumbo Hot Chicken Sliders, Tenders, and Bites. These are accompanied by sides such as house-made Kale Slaw, creamy Mac & Cheese, and crispy, seasoned French Fries.
“We know there is an opportunity to make Dave’s Hot Chicken one of the iconic restaurant brands, and we do that by partnering with incredible operators, like Azzurri Group,” said Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. “The flavour of Dave’s Hot Chicken resonates across borders, and we’re looking forward to the first UK store getting open soon.”
Dave’s Hot Chicken is also known for its seven spice levels, ranging from No Spice to the daunting Reaper™ (which requires a signed waiver). Each piece of juicy, hand-breaded chicken is spiced to order. The brand recently expanded its menu in early 2024 with Dave’s NOT Chicken, featuring hot, juicy, and crispy Cauliflower Sliders and Cauliflower Bites.
The stores themselves are designed to reflect the brand’s vibrant origins, featuring eye-catching colours and energy, with LA-based street art that harkens back to the parking lot where Dave’s Hot Chicken first began.
With this expansion, Dave’s Hot Chicken aims to bring its unique flavour and experience to new customers across the UK and Ireland, adding to the diverse dining options available in these regions.
Publisher of Hospitality and Leisure News, 365 Retail, Retail Source and organiser of the Creative Retail Awards.
